Social workers went on strike last month

Up to 1,600 social workers from 11 health trusts across the province took part in the industrial action on Thursday.

The strike, which is affecting a range of social services, meant only emergency social care was available.

The workers are members of the public service union Nipsa.

Nipsa deputy general secretary Brian Campfield said the union had given careful consideration to the deal.

"Nipsa has decided, with considerable reluctance, to suspend its further industrial action to allow members to consider the proposals," he said.

Social workers say they earn up to �4,000 less than other similar employees in the health service.

They want an increase in the starting salary from �18,000 to �22,000.

The latest action followed a 48-hour strike in April.

Social workers have also been adhering to a strict 37-hour week policy since April.

During last month's strike, Mr Campfield said higher wages were needed to attract more people to social work, as there was a large vacancy rate in the profession which was putting added pressure on the system.

Nipsa, which is the biggest public service union in Northern Ireland, represents the majority of qualified social workers.

In April, it said more than 85% who participated in a secret ballot supported the strike action.